A Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 22
The Rongmei community of Dimapur celebrated their ‘Chakan Gaan-Ngai’ festival at the Rongmei Tribal Court premises on Friday, January 22. The celebrations were organized by the Rongmei Council Nagaland.
Chief guest of the event, chairman of the NIDC H Tovihoto Ayemi said in his short speech that the importance of festivals identify the people through their unique ways of celebrations.
Calling the Rongmei community as a ‘peace loving community’, Tovihoto said the festival of the community, which he said was ‘recognized nationally and internationally’ was a pride for the people of Nagaland too.
Speaking about the myriad festivals of Nagaland, the chief guest said ‘festivals’ are a part of the rich cultural heritage of the Nagas and a proud identity that should be preserved and put to practice. Cultures and the traditions which were once bestowed by the people’s ancestors ‘should be kept alive while passing it to the future generations.’
‘Our identity will disappear If we do not keep the festivals and the traditions alive in good spirit.
Citing the importance of cultural identity,’ Ayemi said. ‘If one wishes to be respected, one cultural identity should always be reflected within oneself.’
Adding that western culture was the trend that’s taking place in the present society, the politician said that one should know the ‘limits and should not get carried away’ with the trend.
The formal program was followed by a cultural festival during which various entertainment and cultural activities were performed.
